Manufacturer: Vacheron Constantin Year: 1967 Reference No: 6440 Movement No: 587'454 Case No: 410'284 Model Name: "Cioccolatone" Material: 18K yellow gold Calibre: Automatic, cal. 1072/1, 29 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold pin buckle Dimensions: 44mm Length, 35mm Width Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by Vacheron Constantin Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1967
Catalogue Essay
A timepiece whose design is bordering experimental, the “Cioccolatone” is one of Vacheron Constantin’s most recognizable and defining designs.
Nicknamed “Cioccolatone" due to its resemblance to a square of chocolate, it was originally introduced to the market in the 1950s, including a manual wind, an automatic, a version with date only like the present reference 6440 and of course the famous triple date calendar with moonphase display.
The present lot with its superbly preserved case, sunray pattern silver dial and graphic indexes eloquently embodies Vacheron Constantins's creative exuberance. In 2003 Vacheron Constantin revived this case shape by launching the full calendar with moonphase indication model under the name Toledo 1952; in 2013 Vacheron Constantin relaunched a model similar to the present lot under the name Historiques Toledo 1951.
The present lot will appeal to the non-conformist and the lover of unconventional timepieces.
The world's oldest watch brand in continuous operation since its founding in 1755, Vacheron Constantin was the first watch company to manufacture movements with interchangeable parts beginning in 1839. Vacheron's watches are admired for their Latin-influenced case designs, well-balanced proportions and exquisitely finished movements of the highest quality. The Geneva-based manufacturer is known for their highly complicated masterpieces, including the King Farouk Grand Complication made in 1935, the Tour de l'Ile that was the most complicated serially produced wristwatch when introduced in 2005 and the 57260 — the world’s most complicated watch — made in 2015.
Key vintage models include minute repeating wristwatches such as the references 4261, chronographs such as the references 4178 and 6087 and the oversized Cioccolotone models such as ref. 4737. Collectors also appreciate Vacheron's Chronometer Royal pocket and wristwatches, as well as the '222,' the brand's first luxury sports watch produced from 1977 through 1984.